Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs

If you’re a fan of cream puffs, you simply can’t miss out on trying my mom’s famous recipe! These cream puffs are a delightful treat that will leave you craving more. The magic lies in the filling—a rich, decadent cream that elevates the humble cream puff to new heights. Unlike many others, this filling uses a pudding base enhanced with heavy cream, creating a luscious and irresistible texture. The shells are ultra-light, making them the perfect vessel for this delicious filling. Plus, you can prepare the shells in advance and freeze them, or make the cream a day ahead and simply assemble before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cream puffs are not just any dessert; they’re an experience. With a light and airy shell and a filling that’s rich and creamy, each bite is pure bliss. You can even get creative with the toppings—whether you stick with classic powdered sugar or opt for a drizzle of melted chocolate, they’re sure to impress. And if you’re feeling playful, add some sprinkles for a fun twist that kids will adore.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Parchment paper
• Cookie sheets
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Piping bag or spoon

Ingredients

• 1 stick butter (8 tablespoons)
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup flour
• MOM’S FAMOUS FILLING:
• 1 pint heavy cream
• 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding
• ⅓ cup milk

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the butter, water, and vanilla to a boil.
3. Add the flour and stir constantly until the mixture leaves the side of the pot and forms a ball.
4. Remove from heat and let cool.
5. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until the dough is smooth.
6. Drop tablespoons of the dough onto parchment-lined cookie sheets.
7. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely.
8. Slice in half and pipe or scoop in Mom’s filling.
9. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Filling: Beat the heavy cream, pudding powder, and milk in a mixer until thick and resembles whipped cream.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the butter mixture is cool before adding eggs to prevent them from cooking.
• If you don’t have a piping bag, use a spoon to fill the cream puffs.
• For a perfect finish, wait until just before serving to dust with powdered sugar to avoid it getting absorbed.

Additional Tips and Variations

You can drizzle chocolate over the tops for a chocolatey twist or add colorful sprinkles for a festive look. Feel free to experiment with different pudding flavors in the filling for variety.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 180
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make the cream puffs in advance?
Yes, the shells can be made and frozen until needed, and the filling can be prepared a day ahead.

How should I store leftover cream puffs?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Can I use a different type of pudding for the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to try other instant pudding flavors for a different twist.

These cream puffs are a must-try for anyone who loves a delightful dessert. Easy to make and incredibly rewarding, they are sure to impress family and friends. Give them a try and feel free to share your creations and any unique twists you added. Enjoy!